One of the stars of the first week of Chargers' training camp was Brenen Thompson. He was arguably the biggest riser on the roster. Thompson connected with QB Justin Herbert for two explosive deep shots on back to back days. In many ways, it felt like his official arrival to the team.
Justin Herbert, Mike McDaniel, and LA's other wide receivers were all highly complimentary of the rookie when they were asked about him. Of course, Thompson still has to carry his training camp performances over into preseason and regular season games. But all the signs so far have been increasingly positive with each passing day.
Chargers rookie WR Brenen Thompson compares himself to another Mike McDaniel favorite.
The 4.26 WR spoke to the media on Monday for the first time since his training camp breakout. And he certainly did not lack confidence.
"I know my speed is pretty much unmatched when I step out onto the field," Thompson said. "And that's something I take strong confidence in."
Thompson was also asked about potentially returning punts and said, "I think I'm very comfortable." The former Mississippi State WR has worked punt return drills as a competition is underway to see who the teams' special teams returners will be.
But the quote that might get fans most excited about was which player Thompson says he tries to emulate his game after.
"I think Tyreek [Hill] is a little in that category, just because Coach McDaniel did have Tyreek," Thompson said. "I think I can be used in some similar ways."
Other than Hill, Thompson also mentioned former Eagles WR DeSean Jackson as another player he looks up to.
Obviously, no one will be comparing Thompson to Hill barring some insane seasons of offensive production. But when you consider the speed that McDaniel wants in his offense in addition to LA's OC pounding the table for Thompson, it makes sense stylistically.
The Chargers missed the presence of a true vertical field stretcher last season in the wide receiver room. While Hill may be an ambitious comp at this stage of his career, it's not that crazy based on the consistent big plays he made in the SEC. Thompson averaged 18.5 yards per reception last season in college with his biggest play going for 58 yards.
As McDaniel said last week, Thompson has earned the attention of Herbert and the quarterback room so far. If he continues on his current path, a 2020 Jalen Guyton style season is not out of reach for the new rookie.
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